Proflo Toilet Tank

Navigating the Waters of Bathroom Upgrades with Confidence

When I decided to renovate my bathroom last spring, I never imagined I’d become somewhat of a toilet tank expert. Yet here I am, having spent countless hours researching, comparing, and ultimately installing various ProFlo toilet tanks in both my home and my parents’ house. What started as a simple replacement job turned into a fascinating deep dive into the world of bathroom fixtures. Finding the right toilet tank is more important than most people realize until they’ve dealt with a bad one.

After experiencing firsthand the frustrations of leaks, inefficient flushing, and incompatible parts, I wanted to create the guide I wish I’d had when I started. Whether you’re replacing a broken tank, upgrading to a more efficient model, or completing a full bathroom remodel, this comprehensive guide will help you navigate the sometimes confusing world of ProFlo toilet tanks.

Understanding ProFlo Toilet Tanks: Types and Options

ProFlo offers a surprising variety of toilet tanks to meet different needs and bathroom configurations. When I first started looking, I was honestly overwhelmed by the options. Let me break down what I’ve learned about the different types available:

Standard Single-Flush Tanks

These are the most common ProFlo tanks you’ll encounter, designed for everyday use in residential bathrooms. They operate with a single flush mechanism that uses the same amount of water for each flush. In my experience, these are reliable workhorses that get the job done without any fancy features.

The standard tanks typically hold between 1.28 and 1.6 gallons per flush (GPF), with the 1.28 GPF models being more water-efficient while still providing adequate flushing power. I installed one of these in my guest bathroom, and it’s been problem-free for over two years now.

Dual-Flush Systems

One of my favorite discoveries was ProFlo’s dual-flush tank options. These innovative tanks provide two flushing options: a lighter flush (usually around 0.8-1.1 GPF) for liquid waste and a full flush (around 1.28-1.6 GPF) for solid waste.

I installed a dual-flush ProFlo tank in my master bathroom, and I’ve been genuinely impressed with the performance. The partial flush option works remarkably well for most daily uses, and I’ve noticed a noticeable decrease in my water bill since making the switch. Plus, there’s a certain satisfaction in knowing I’m conserving water with every use.

ADA-Compliant Tanks

For those with accessibility needs, ProFlo makes ADA-compliant toilet tanks that are designed to meet the Americans with Disabilities Act requirements. These tanks are often paired with comfort-height bowls and feature easy-to-use flush mechanisms that don’t require excessive force or dexterity.

When I helped my parents renovate their bathroom last year, we opted for an ADA-compliant ProFlo setup. My father, who has arthritis in his hands, has found it much easier to use than their previous toilet.

Commercial-Grade Tanks

Though less common for residential use, ProFlo does offer commercial-grade tanks designed for high-traffic areas. These tanks are built with durability in mind and often feature more robust internal components.

A contractor friend of mine swears by these for rental properties, as they tend to require less maintenance over time despite higher initial costs. I haven’t personally installed one of these, but the quality difference is apparent even just examining the components.

Designer and Modern Tanks

For those focused on aesthetics, ProFlo offers sleeker, more modern tank designs that can complement contemporary bathroom styles. These tanks often feature clean lines, compact profiles, and sometimes come in various colors beyond the standard white.

I was pleasantly surprised by how much of a difference the more modern tank made in my powder room renovation. The sleek profile opened up the small space visually, and guests often comment on how nice it looks—not something you typically expect with a toilet!

Material Matters: What ProFlo Toilet Tanks Are Made Of

Understanding the materials used in ProFlo toilet tanks helped me make a more informed decision about durability and aesthetics. Here’s what I discovered:

Vitreous China

The vast majority of ProFlo toilet tanks are made of vitreous china, which is essentially porcelain that has been glazed and fired at high temperatures. This creates a non-porous, stain-resistant surface that’s easy to clean and extremely durable.

I’ve found that the quality of the vitreous china used in ProFlo tanks is impressive for the price point. The finish has remained glossy and stain-free even in heavily used bathrooms. The only caution I’d offer is that despite its durability, vitreous china can crack or chip if struck with heavy objects—something I learned the hard way when I dropped a shampoo bottle during installation.

Internal Components

While the tank itself is typically vitreous china, the internal components are made from a variety of materials:

• Fill valves are usually constructed of durable plastic
• Flush valves often combine plastic and rubber components
• Trip levers and handles may be plastic, metal, or a combination

In my experience, ProFlo uses better-than-average internal components compared to some budget brands. I’ve had to replace parts in other brand toilets far sooner than in any of my ProFlo installations.

Insulation Options

Some higher-end ProFlo tanks come with insulation to prevent condensation (sweating) on the outside of the tank. This feature is particularly valuable in humid climates or bathrooms without adequate ventilation.

After dealing with constant condensation in my previous toilet, I specifically sought out an insulated tank for my basement bathroom renovation. The difference has been remarkable—no more water puddles on the floor around the toilet base.

Water Efficiency: How ProFlo Tanks Help Conserve Water

Water conservation has become increasingly important, and toilet efficiency plays a significant role in household water usage. ProFlo has adapted to changing regulations and consumer preferences with a range of water-efficient options:

Understanding GPF Ratings

Before diving into specific models, it’s important to understand that Gallons Per Flush (GPF) is the standard measurement of water usage for toilets. Older toilets typically used 3.5 to 7 gallons per flush, which is astonishingly wasteful by today’s standards.

Current federal regulations limit toilets to 1.6 GPF, but many ProFlo models go further with 1.28 GPF or even lower for partial flushes in dual-flush systems. Choosing a water-efficient toilet tank is one of the most impactful ways to reduce your household water consumption.

WaterSense Certification

Many ProFlo toilet tanks carry the EPA’s WaterSense certification, which indicates they use at least 20% less water than the federal standard while still providing equal or superior performance.

I specifically looked for the WaterSense label when selecting tanks for my home renovations. Not only has this reduced my environmental footprint, but it’s also translated to real savings on my water bill—approximately $110 annually across my household.

High-Efficiency Models

ProFlo’s high-efficiency toilet (HET) tanks are designed to provide powerful flushing performance while using significantly less water. These models typically use innovative flush valve designs and optimized water channels to maximize efficiency.

Initially, I was skeptical about whether a 1.28 GPF tank would perform as well as my old 1.6 GPF model, but I’ve been pleasantly surprised. The flushing power is actually superior despite using less water, thanks to improved internal design.

Rebate Eligibility

An unexpected bonus I discovered when purchasing water-efficient ProFlo tanks was rebate eligibility. Many water utilities offer rebates for replacing older toilets with high-efficiency models.

I received a $100 rebate from my local water authority after submitting proof of purchase for my 1.28 GPF ProFlo tank. This significantly offset the initial cost and made the water-efficient option more economical than the standard models.

Compatibility Considerations: Will a ProFlo Tank Work with Your Existing Setup?

One of the most confusing aspects of toilet tank replacement is determining compatibility. Here’s what I’ve learned about ensuring a ProFlo tank will work with your existing setup:

Bowl Compatibility

ProFlo toilet tanks are primarily designed to work with ProFlo toilet bowls, but they can be compatible with other brands if certain measurements match up. The critical dimensions include:

• The distance between mounting bolts
• The spud opening (where the tank connects to the bowl)
• The flush valve opening size

When I wanted to replace just the tank on my guest bathroom toilet, I carefully measured these dimensions and brought them to the store. This extra step saved me from making an expensive mistake, as I discovered my existing bowl required a specific tank configuration.

Two-Piece vs. One-Piece Considerations

It’s important to note that ProFlo tanks are generally designed for two-piece toilets. If you have a one-piece toilet, you typically cannot replace just the tank portion—you’ll need to replace the entire unit.

I learned this lesson when trying to help a neighbor with their bathroom renovation. Despite our best efforts to find a compatible tank for their existing one-piece toilet, we ultimately had to replace the entire fixture.

Rough-In Measurement

While the rough-in measurement (the distance from the wall to the center of the drain) primarily affects the bowl rather than the tank, it’s still important to consider when purchasing a complete toilet or ensuring proper fit in your space.

Standard rough-in measurements are 12 inches, but older homes may have 10-inch or 14-inch rough-ins. ProFlo offers options for these various configurations, which I found particularly helpful when working in my 1940s-era home with its non-standard measurements.

Matching Design Elements

Beyond technical compatibility, consider design compatibility. ProFlo offers various tank styles from traditional to contemporary, and mismatching these with your existing bowl can result in an odd-looking fixture.

When I replaced just the tank in my powder room, I brought photos of my existing bowl to ensure the new tank would be a stylistic match. This extra consideration paid off in a seamless-looking result.

Installation Insights: How to Install a ProFlo Toilet Tank

Installing a ProFlo toilet tank can be a DIY project if you’re comfortable with basic plumbing tasks. Having installed several myself, here’s my step-by-step process:

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

Before starting any installation, gather these essential items:

• Adjustable wrench
• Screwdriver (typically Phillips head)
• Sponge and bucket
• Towels for cleanup
• Silicone caulk (optional)
• Replacement supply line (recommended)
• Tank-to-bowl gasket (usually included with new tank)
• Tank-to-bowl bolts (usually included)

I’ve found having everything prepared before starting makes the process much smoother and prevents those frustrating mid-installation hardware store runs.

Preparation Steps

1. Turn off the water supply to the toilet using the shutoff valve, typically located on the wall behind the toilet.
2. Flush the toilet to empty the tank as much as possible.
3. Disconnect the water supply line from the bottom of the tank.
4. Soak up remaining water in the tank with a sponge and bucket.

Taking my time with these preparation steps has prevented many potential water-related disasters during installation.

Removing the Old Tank

1. Locate the tank-to-bowl bolts underneath the connection between the tank and bowl.
2. Use your adjustable wrench to hold the nut while using a screwdriver to loosen the bolt from above.
3. Once all bolts are removed, carefully lift the tank straight up and away from the bowl.

The first time I did this, I was surprised by how heavy a porcelain tank can be—especially when there’s still some water inside. Having a helper for this step is advisable.

Installing the New ProFlo Tank

1. Place the new tank-to-bowl gasket over the flush valve opening on the bottom of the tank.
2. Insert the tank-to-bowl bolts through the holes inside the tank, adding rubber washers if included.
3. Carefully lower the tank onto the bowl, aligning the bolts with the matching holes in the bowl.
4. From underneath, add metal washers and nuts to the bolts.
5. Tighten the nuts evenly to create a level seal—but don’t overtighten, as this can crack the porcelain.
6. Connect the water supply line to the fill valve connection on the bottom of the tank.
7. Turn on the water supply and check for leaks.
8. Adjust the fill valve if necessary to achieve the proper water level.

The most critical lesson I’ve learned is to tighten everything evenly and gradually. Overtightening or uneven pressure has been the cause of most installation problems I’ve encountered.

Troubleshooting Common Installation Issues

• If you notice leaking between the tank and bowl, the tank-to-bowl gasket may not be seated properly or the bolts may need adjustment.
• If the tank is rocking or uneven, loosen the bolts and realign before retightening.
• If there’s leaking around the supply line connection, you may need to tighten the connection or replace the supply line.

From personal experience, taking the time to get these details right during installation saves countless headaches later. When I rushed the installation in my guest bathroom, I ended up with a small leak that required redoing the entire process.

Price Ranges: What to Expect When Shopping for ProFlo Toilet Tanks

ProFlo positions itself as a value brand, offering quality products at reasonable price points. Here’s what I’ve observed about their pricing structure:

Entry-Level Options

Basic ProFlo toilet tanks typically range from $50 to $80, depending on the retailer and any ongoing promotions. These tanks offer standard functionality and usually have 1.6 GPF water usage.

I’ve installed several of these basic tanks for rental properties and found them to be perfectly adequate for general use, offering good value for the price.

Mid-Range Options

Mid-tier ProFlo tanks, which include water-efficient 1.28 GPF models and some dual-flush options, generally fall in the $80 to $120 range. These offer improved performance and water savings over the entry-level models.

The mid-range tanks are what I typically recommend to friends and family, as they offer the best balance between price and features. The water savings alone can offset the additional cost over time.

Premium Options

ProFlo’s higher-end tanks, featuring dual-flush technology, designer styles, or specialized functions, typically range from $120 to $180. These often include upgraded internal components and enhanced aesthetic features.

I splurged on a premium dual-flush tank for my master bathroom, and while it was nearly twice the price of a basic tank, the water savings, improved performance, and sleeker design have made it worth the investment.

Complete Toilet Packages

When purchasing a complete toilet (tank and bowl together), ProFlo options typically range from $150 to $300, depending on style, features, and efficiency ratings.

I’ve found that buying the complete package often provides better value than purchasing pieces separately, and ensures perfect compatibility between components.

Additional Cost Considerations

Remember to factor in potential additional costs:

• Installation (if hiring a professional): $150-$300
• New water supply line: $5-$15
• Wax ring for bowl installation: $5-$10
• Possible upgrades to shut-off valve: $10-$20

When budgeting for my bathroom renovations, I learned to add about $30-50 to the tank price for these ancillary items, even when doing the installation myself.

Warranty and Support: What ProFlo Offers

Understanding warranty coverage helped me feel more confident in my ProFlo purchases. Here’s what I’ve learned about their warranty and support offerings:

Standard Warranty Coverage

Most ProFlo toilet tanks come with a 1-year limited warranty that covers defects in materials and workmanship. This is fairly standard in the industry for value-priced fixtures.

I’ve only had to use the warranty once, when a tank arrived with a hairline crack that wasn’t immediately visible. The customer service process was straightforward, and they sent a replacement without much hassle.

Extended Warranty Options

Some retailers offer extended warranty options for an additional fee. These typically extend coverage to 3-5 years and may include additional protections beyond manufacturer defects.

Personally, I’ve skipped these extended options, as porcelain tanks tend to either have issues immediately (manufacturing defects) or last for many years without problems.

Parts Availability

One advantage of the ProFlo brand is the wide availability of replacement parts. Standard components like fill valves, flush valves, and flappers are readily available at most home improvement stores.

This parts availability has saved me several times when minor issues arose. Instead of replacing the entire tank, I was able to quickly and inexpensively replace just the problematic component.

Customer Support Experiences

My experiences with ProFlo customer support have been generally positive. When I had questions about compatibility for a unique installation, their support team was knowledgeable and responsive.

The best way to reach their support is through the retailer where you purchased the tank, as ProFlo products are primarily sold through specific retail partners rather than directly to consumers.

Maintenance and Care: Keeping Your ProFlo Tank in Top Condition

Proper maintenance has extended the life of all my toilet fixtures. Here are my tried-and-true tips for maintaining ProFlo toilet tanks:

Routine Cleaning

I clean my ProFlo tanks inside and out about once a month:

1. For the exterior, a non-abrasive bathroom cleaner and soft cloth keeps the porcelain looking new.
2. For the interior, I turn off the water supply, flush to empty the tank, and use a toilet bowl cleaner specifically safe for internal tank components.
3. I avoid dropping cleaning tablets into the tank, as many contain chemicals that can damage rubber and plastic components over time.

This regular maintenance prevents mineral buildup and keeps everything functioning smoothly.

Preventing Condensation

To prevent tank sweating (condensation forming on the outside of the tank):

1. Consider installing an anti-condensation liner if your tank doesn’t have built-in insulation.
2. In very humid environments, running a small dehumidifier in the bathroom can help.
3. Ensure proper bathroom ventilation through fans or windows.

After dealing with constant puddles around one of my toilets, implementing these measures eliminated the problem completely.

Addressing Minor Leaks Promptly

Small leaks can waste water and potentially cause damage:

1. If you notice water seeping from the tank to the bowl (often detectable by the toilet running periodically without being used), the flapper likely needs replacement.
2. For leaks around the tank-to-bowl connection, tightening the bolts slightly may solve the problem.
3. If water is dripping from the tank onto the floor, check the tank bolts and water supply connection.

I’ve saved significant amounts on my water bill by addressing minor leaks as soon as I notice them rather than letting them persist.

Adjusting Water Level

The correct water level is important for proper flushing performance:

1. Look for a mark or line inside the tank indicating the proper water level (typically about an inch below the overflow tube).
2. Adjust the float or fill valve according to the manufacturer’s instructions if the water level is too high or too low.
3. Test flush several times after adjustment to ensure proper operation.

Fine-tuning the water level in my dual-flush ProFlo tank made a noticeable difference in flushing effectiveness while still maintaining water efficiency.

Where to Buy ProFlo Toilet Tanks

Finding the right retailer can affect both price and support options. Here’s where I’ve purchased ProFlo products:

Specialty Plumbing Supply Stores

ProFlo is carried by many specialty plumbing retailers like Ferguson and other regional plumbing supply houses. These stores often have knowledgeable staff who can help with technical questions.

I’ve found the expertise at these specialty stores invaluable, especially when dealing with unusual installation requirements or compatibility concerns.

Home Improvement Chains

Some larger home improvement chains carry ProFlo products, though availability varies by region. These retailers often offer competitive pricing and convenient return policies.

The convenience of these stores makes them my go-to for straightforward replacements when I already know exactly what I need.

Online Retailers

Various online plumbing supply websites carry ProFlo products, often with detailed specifications and customer reviews to help inform purchases.

I’ve occasionally purchased ProFlo components online when looking for specific models not stocked locally, though I prefer to see toilet fixtures in person when possible.

Contractor Supply Channels

If you’re working with a contractor on a larger renovation project, they may have access to ProFlo products through their professional supply channels, sometimes at better prices than retail.

For my larger bathroom renovation, having my contractor source the ProFlo fixtures saved me about 15% compared to retail pricing.

Real-World Performance: ProFlo Toilet Tank Reviews

After installing multiple ProFlo tanks and speaking with other homeowners, I’ve gathered a range of perspectives on their performance:

Positive Feedback Patterns

Most ProFlo users appreciate:

• The value proposition—good quality at reasonable prices
• Water efficiency in newer models
• Availability of parts when needed
• Clean, simple designs that work in most bathrooms
• Relatively straightforward installation

My experience aligns with these positive aspects. For the price point, ProFlo tanks offer reliable performance that satisfies most household needs.

Common Criticisms

Some consistent criticisms include:

• Occasional issues with flush power in the most water-efficient models
• Plastic components that may not be as durable as premium brands
• Limited color and style options compared to designer brands
• Basic internal components that might require replacement sooner than premium brands

I’ve experienced some of these limitations, particularly with the internal components. I’ve replaced the fill valve in one of my ProFlo tanks after about three years of use—sooner than I would expect with a premium brand, but reasonable given the price difference.

Long-Term Reliability Insights

In terms of long-term reliability, my oldest ProFlo tank has been in service for about six years with only minor maintenance required. Conversations with plumbers suggest that with proper care, these tanks typically last 8-10 years before major components may need replacement.

This lifespan represents good value considering the initial purchase price is often half that of premium brands.

How ProFlo Compares to Other Brands

Understanding how ProFlo stacks up against competitors helped me make more informed decisions:

ProFlo vs. Budget Brands

Compared to the least expensive options on the market, ProFlo offers:

• Better quality materials and construction
• More reliable performance
• Better availability of replacement parts
• Slightly higher prices

I’ve installed both ProFlo and some budget-brand toilets, and the difference in quality is noticeable even to non-experts. The slight premium for ProFlo has been worth it in terms of reduced headaches and callbacks.

ProFlo vs. Mid-Range Brands

Against comparably priced competitors like American Standard’s basic lines or Glacier Bay, ProFlo:

• Offers similar quality and performance
• Sometimes provides better value depending on current promotions
• Has comparable warranty coverage
• Typically has fewer style options

In this middle tier, my experience suggests that ProFlo holds its own quite well, with the decision often coming down to specific features or aesthetic preferences rather than quality differences.

ProFlo vs. Premium Brands

When compared to premium brands like Kohler, Toto, or higher-end American Standard lines, ProFlo:

• Costs significantly less (often 40-60% of the premium price)
• Uses somewhat less refined internal components
• Offers fewer technological innovations
• Provides fewer design options
• May have slightly shorter expected lifespan

For my rental properties and secondary bathrooms, I’ve found the value proposition of ProFlo compelling enough to choose it over premium options. For my master bathroom, however, I eventually upgraded to a premium brand for the additional features and design options.

Troubleshooting Common ProFlo Tank Issues

Even the best toilet tanks can develop issues. Here are solutions to common problems I’ve encountered with ProFlo tanks:

Running Toilet

If your ProFlo toilet runs continuously or intermittently:

1. Check the flapper for proper seating and wear—this is the most common cause of running toilets.
2. Adjust the chain length if it’s too short (preventing the flapper from closing fully) or too long (potentially getting caught under the flapper).
3. Inspect the fill valve for proper operation and adjustment.

Replacing the flapper (a $5-10 part) has resolved this issue for me multiple times and is a simple 5-minute fix.

Weak Flush

For inadequate flushing power:

1. Ensure the water level in the tank is set to the manufacturer’s recommended height.
2. Check for partial clogs in the rim jets or trapway.
3. Verify that the flapper is opening fully during the flush.
4. Make sure the flush valve is the correct size for your toilet model.

After struggling with weak flushes in one bathroom, I discovered mineral buildup in the rim jets was the culprit. A thorough cleaning with a calcium/lime/rust remover solved the problem.

Tank Sweating

For condensation on the outside of the tank:

1. Install an anti-condensation kit (a liner that insulates the tank).
2. Improve bathroom ventilation.
3. Consider replacing with an insulated ProFlo tank model if persistent.

Living in a humid climate, this was a recurring issue until I installed proper ventilation and an anti-condensation liner.

Leaking Between Tank and Bowl

If water is seeping between the tank and bowl:

1. Check that the tank bolts are tight but not overtightened.
2. Inspect the tank-to-bowl gasket for proper positioning or damage.
3. Ensure the tank is sitting level on the bowl.

When I encountered this issue, carefully removing and repositioning the tank with a new gasket resolved the problem permanently.

Making the Final Decision: How to Choose the Right ProFlo Tank

After all my research and experience, here’s my process for selecting the ideal ProFlo toilet tank:

Assess Your Specific Needs

Consider these factors:

1. Water efficiency priorities (Are water bills or conservation important to you?)
2. Bathroom usage patterns (Heavy use? Rarely used guest bathroom?)
3. User needs (Children, elderly, or people with mobility concerns?)
4. Aesthetic preferences and bathroom style
5. Budget constraints

For my family bathroom with heavy use, prioritizing durability and flush performance made sense, while water efficiency was my top concern for less frequently used spaces.

Measure Twice, Buy Once

Before purchasing:

1. Confirm your rough-in measurement if replacing a complete toilet.
2. For tank-only replacements, measure the bolt spread and connection points.
3. Consider the available space and clearances in your bathroom.

Taking detailed measurements prevented costly mistakes in all my toilet replacements.

Consider Long-Term Value Over Initial Cost

While it can be tempting to choose the least expensive option:

1. Calculate potential water savings from more efficient models.
2. Consider the frequency of use and importance of reliability.
3. Factor in potential rebates for water-efficient models.

In my calculations, the mid-tier ProFlo options typically offered the best long-term value when considering both purchase price and operating costs.

Don’t Forget Aesthetics

A toilet tank is a visible fixture in your bathroom:

1. Consider how different tank styles complement your overall bathroom design.
2. Look at the toilet from different angles in the showroom if possible.
3. Think about how the tank profile affects the visual space in your bathroom.

I was surprised by how much the sleeker profile of a modern ProFlo tank improved the appearance of my small powder room compared to the bulkier original fixture.

Conclusion: My ProFlo Journey

Finding the right toilet tank is more important than most people realize until they’ve dealt with a bad one. After multiple bathroom renovations and several ProFlo installations, I’ve developed a genuine appreciation for how a well-chosen toilet tank can improve daily life through reliability, water efficiency, and even aesthetics.

ProFlo offers solid options across various price points and feature sets, making it a brand worth considering for most residential applications. While they may not offer the cutting-edge features of premium brands, their combination of reasonable pricing, decent quality, and good availability makes them a practical choice for many homeowners.

Whether you’re replacing a single tank, renovating an entire bathroom, or building a new home, I hope my experiences help you navigate the sometimes confusing world of toilet tanks with confidence. The right ProFlo tank can provide years of trouble-free service when properly selected and installed—something I can attest to from personal experience across multiple properties.

Remember that the perfect toilet tank is the one that meets your specific needs for performance, efficiency, and style while fitting within your budget constraints. With the information in this guide, you’re well-equipped to make that perfect match with a ProFlo toilet tank.